On March 28th, 2025, the PLUSS (LGBTQI+ Policy and Leadership in Sport and Society) project partners gathered virtually for a crucial online meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to align on upcoming activities and discuss strategies for improving key deliverables in the next phase of the project. This meeting was pivotal in shaping the future direction of the project, which aims to empower LGBTQIA+ individuals and foster greater inclusivity within the sporting community.

Key Discussion Points: Shaping the Future of LGBTQIA+ Sports

A significant part of the discussion centered on the development of a comprehensive historical account of the LGBTQIA+ sport movement in Europe. The partners explored key moments and milestones in LGBTQIA+ sports history that have had a lasting impact on the visibility and inclusivity of queer athletes across the continent. This collective effort will culminate in the creation of an illustrated story that documents the evolution of LGBTQIA+ sports, from its early days to its present achievements and challenges.

The partners brainstormed which pivotal events, organizations, and individuals should be highlighted in this narrative to showcase the resilience, dedication, and progress made by the LGBTQIA+ sports movement. This illustrated story aims to be an inspiring and educational resource that both celebrates achievements and highlights the ongoing journey toward inclusivity in sports.

Building LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Sports: Community Guidelines and Policy Recommendations

Another key area of focus during the online meeting was the development of Community Guidelines for Developing LGBTQIA+ Inclusive Sports. These guidelines will provide sports organizations, clubs, and event organizers with practical, actionable advice on how to create welcoming, safe, and inclusive environments for LGBTQIA+ athletes and participants. The guidelines will be designed to address common barriers to participation, such as discrimination, exclusion, and lack of representation, while promoting policies that foster equality and respect for all identities.

In addition to the community guidelines, the partners discussed the creation of a Purple Policy Paper—a set of policy recommendations for decision-makers aimed at promoting inclusive practices within sports governance and national policy. These recommendations will serve as a toolkit for lawmakers, sports federations, and organizations to improve policies, ensure greater LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports, and tackle discrimination and inequality at all levels. The Purple Policy Paper will be an influential resource for advocating for systemic change in how LGBTQIA+ individuals are treated and represented within sports organizations.

Showcasing Results at EuroGames25 in Lyon

The exciting culmination of these efforts will take place at EuroGames25 in Lyon, France, where the results of the PLUSS project will be showcased to a wide audience of LGBTQIA+ athletes, advocates, and stakeholders. The illustrated story, community guidelines, and Purple Policy Paper will be shared with the community, marking a major milestone in the ongoing advocacy for LGBTQIA+ inclusion in sports. EuroGames25 will provide an excellent platform for presenting these deliverables to international decision-makers, sports organizations, and the general public.

Looking Ahead: Continuous Collaboration and Engagement

As the PLUSS project progresses, the partnership remains committed to driving meaningful change within the sports sector. The virtual meeting on March 28th was just one step in an ongoing collaboration that will continue to produce valuable resources, foster deeper connections between LGBTQIA+ communities and sports organizations, and advocate for lasting policy changes.

The partnership is dedicated to ensuring that LGBTQIA+ athletes have equal opportunities, recognition, and support in sports, both in Europe and globally. The upcoming deliverables will provide essential tools for advancing this mission, and the PLUSS team looks forward to presenting them at EuroGames25.

Stay Connected

To stay updated on the latest developments from the PLUSS project, including the illustrated story, community guidelines, and policy recommendations, be sure to follow our social media channels and keep an eye out for upcoming announcements. Together, we can continue to champion inclusivity and equity in sports for all LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a stronger, more inclusive sporting community!

PLUSS, an Erasmus+ project co-funded by the European Commission

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